Rebel Wilson says she wasn't fat shamed — but the internet disagrees

Rebel Wilson is one of Hollywood’s most in-demand comedic actresses, known primarily for her role as “Fat Amy” in the Pitch Perfect films. But on Tuesday she announced a new addition to her résumé when she revealed her gorgeous photo on the cover of Vogue Australia.

“I never would’ve thought this element would be added to my life: Vogue Covergirl,” she wrote on Instagram and Twitter. “This was such an amazing experience, thank you Vogue Australia and to all the designers and stylists who worked on this shoot!”

Appearing in a long brown trench coat and a black gown, Wilson raved about the work of the stylists on the shoot. However, Wilson’s fans have taken offense at the way she appears in the billowy look.

“I think it’s so amazing they put you on the cover and I adore you,” one follower wrote, “but I’m so sad they drowned you in fabric.” Another echoed the sentiment, writing, “You don’t need that giant coat to cover up your beauty.”

But criticism aimed at the high-fashion magazine continued when others suggested that Wilson might even appear Photoshopped.

“She doesn’t even have recognizable wrists,” someone commented. “They widened her smile and she was always naturally beautiful.” Another said: “They altered the photo. Look at her face and hands. Slimmed down. Why can’t they just show her in her natural beauty?”

Soon after, Wilson provided a response herself, assuring followers that she wasn’t Photoshopped by the publication to appear slimmer. Instead, she admitted to a bit of diet and exercise before the big shoot.

Nope, not slimmed down! I just ate healthy and exercised for the month before the shoot x but then immediately after ate brownies!

And when the shaming comments continued, Wilson went so far as to provide photographic evidence of the raw photos versus what appeared in the magazine.

Oh and just so you can see the raw v’s the magazine shot, I took a monitor photo myself on the day of the shoot! So please don’t carry on that these shots are heavily photoshopped because they’re not! pic.twitter.com/7DcgO4hZ3a

It never even crossed my mind that they were. I wish people would pause, take a deep breath, and think before they speak. It’s annoying. There’s not a single part of you that needs photoshopping because I think you’re stunning. Clearly Vogue agree

However, it wouldn’t be the first time that readers have seen plus-size models and actresses appear in oversized clothes on magazine covers, as if to hide their bodies.

Back in 2013, Melissa McCarthy was at the center of a similar controversy when she appeared on the cover of Elle in a large green coat. The immediate reaction from people who saw the cover was that the publication was to blame for intentionally covering up the actress. However, like Wilson, McCarthy came to her own defense to say that she chose the coat herself and loved the way she looked in it.